UK brings visa services closer

VFS Global has expanded its UK visa application services in the Philippines, opening premium centers in Metro Manila, Davao and Cagayan de Oro and a mobile facility in Bataan.

The company said the expansion comes amid growing demand among Filipinos traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, education and business.

The Premium Application Centers offer applicants personalized assistance, private facilities and optional services, while the Mobile Visa Application Center in Balanga City brings visa submission services closer to applicants in Bataan.

“The strength of the UK-Philippines relationship is reflected by the growing number of Filipinos choosing to visit the UK for tourism, education and business,” British Ambassador to the Philippines Sarah Hulton said.

“The expansion of visa application services will help make the application process more accessible and convenient for customers across the Philippines,” she added.

The premium centers are located at Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City, Dusit Thani Residence Davao and Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro. The mobile center operates at The Bunker in Balanga City, Bataan.

Applicants can select their preferred location when applying for a UK visa online.

VFS Global stressed that the premium and mobile centers are optional and carry additional fees. Using the services does not affect visa processing times or decisions, which remain solely under UK Visas and Immigration.

Standard UK visa application centers in the Philippines will continue to operate.